Is it OK to bring kids to Pearl Harbor?

It is absolutely OK to bring kids to Pearl Harbor. In fact, it is one of the best things that you can do with your kids in Hawaii. Why? Pearl Harbor is a living history lesson. Adults and kids learn more by visiting Pearl Harbor in a couple of hours than they do in a year of history class.

We have some tips if you plan to bring kids to Pearl Harbor that will make your experience even better.

Watch movies before visiting. Watch the movie Pearl Harbor. Watch Battleship. Watch Tora! Tora! Tora! If you can convince your kids to watch documentaries, even better. By watching movies, the history behind the attack on Pearl Harbor and the events that took place will make more sense.

Bring sunscreen and hats. Much of Pearl Harbor is outdoors. You will have moments of direct sunlight. Avoid ruining your vacation with a sunburn by protecting your skin.

If your kids are young enough that they need to be carried you might find a front-carried baby sling preferable to a stroller. Stroller use is limited by security restrictions.

Go with a tour. Tours are the most efficient way to move through Pearl Harbor. With kids, it’s important to keep things moving and get back for naps or rest as soon aspossible. Our Pearl Harbor Tours are designed to make the most of your time and keep everyone busy. We recommend Remember Pearl Harbor – Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri for families travelling with kids. The reason is that this is not a long tour, but it visits the most popular memorials.

Be aware of the Bowfin Submarine age restrictions. Children under 4 are not allowed on or in the submarine.

The Pearl Harbor Visitors Bureau is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, National Park Service, or U.S. Department of the Interior.